Manchester Airport welcomes new Managing Director

Manchester Airport has appointed a new Managing Director, with Karen Smart coming to the role after two years as MD of Manchester Airport Group’s (MAG) East Midlands Airport.

Originally from Macclesfield, Karen Smart will take over running of the UK’s third largest airport after joining MAG in 2014. Before taking on the MD role at East Midlands Airport, she was Customer Services and Security Director and Director of Landside Operations at Stansted, also owned by MAG. Prior to joining the group, Karen spent several years at service provider Serco and had a distinguished career in the RAF.

Commenting on her new appointment as Managing Director at Manchester Airport, Karen Smart said:

It’s a hugely interesting and challenging time in the world of aviation and I feel privileged to take on this role at Manchester Airport.

“As the entire industry looks to recover from the global pandemic, I look forward to ensuring Manchester Airport once again plays its vital role of connecting the North to key international destinations, whilst keeping passengers and staff safe.

“Furthermore, as passenger volumes grow and we see a return to pre Covid-19 numbers, I look forward to ensuring our continued commitment to the environment and local communities, whilst creating economic opportunities to benefit the whole region.”

Karen joins the northern hub at what would usually be the airport’s busiest time of year. Manchester Airport has already seen passenger numbers begin to increase as more airlines resume services.

Elsewhere in MAG, Brad Miller has been appointed Managing Director of MAG-O, the group’s digital division. He has previously held a number of roles across MAG, including Chief Operating Officer, Programme Director of Manchester’s Transformation Programme and Chief of Staff. He added:

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my role at Manchester Airport over the last few years and it’s been a pleasure to see what the airport has achieved and delivered across the region.

“I’d like to thank the whole team, who have been a delight to work with, during more normal times and most recently through the pandemic. Their professionalism and commitment to ensuring passenger safety and the success of the airport is outstanding.

“I look forward to taking on my new role as Managing Director of MAG-O and driving forward our digital agenda.”